Guozijian

2011-08-05

Imperial academy is a
kind of university in ancient China, and the history can be traced back to the
Sui Dynasty (581–618). In ancient times, scholars who could do studies in
imperial academy were regarded as sons of fortune. Up to now, Beijing Imperial
Academy is the last one, going through Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties. It is next
to Beijing Confucian Temple and Yonghe Lama Temple. Facing south, the imperial
academy features symmetrical architectural complex. On the central axis of the
architectural complex, situate Jixian Gate, Taixue Gate, Memorial Archway,
Biyong Hall, Yilun Hall and Jingyi Pavilion. All of them are architectural
essence of Chinese traditional architectures, showing the unique architectural
style of ancient China.

The memorial archway in
Beijing Imperial Academy is the only memorial archway built for education in
China. The banners of the both sides are inscribed by emperor, symbolizing that
the country pays a lot of attention on education. Piyong Hall is the main
architecture in the imperial academy. It was built in 1784, and is the place for
emperors in the Qing Dynasty giving lectures. Located in the very central of the
imperial academy, Piyong Hall has large doors in all directions, multiple eaves,
pyramidal roof, and quadrate shape. Piyong Hall is surrounded by gallery, and
four delicate bridges stretching over the pool lead visitors to the hall. Yilun
Hall is located to the north of Piyong Hall. In the Yuan Dynasty, it has another
name Chongwen Pavilion, and got the name of Yilun Hall after the reconstruction
between 1403 and 1424 in the Ming Dynasty. Before Piyong Hall was built, it was
the hall for emperors giving lectures and after that, it was used as a store
house for books.